Truck & SUV Gear, February 2004 edition

You don't have to race trucks to appreciate the accuracy of this 160psi digital tire-pressure gauge from Griot's Garage. It features a large, digital readout, zero-out button that calibrates for altitude, and a valve that allows excess tire pressure to be bled off quickly. Griot's topped it off with a comfortable handgrip, swiveling stem, and a rubber housing to protect it from drops on the pavement or on the trail. Cost: $89.95. Griot's Garage; 800/345-5789.
www.griotsgarage.com
163 0402 Gear01 Z   |   163 0402 Gear01 Z It can be tough to see what's behind your vehicle when reversing course. Delphi's Forewarn backup aid is designed to keep you informed. The 16.4-foot zone from the radar-based system detects both moving and stationary objects and uses a progressive series of audible alerts heard inside the vehicle. Two models are available: a sensor permanently mounted to the rear bumper, or a removable unit, using a Class II trailer hitch. The system retails for $299. Contact Pana-Pacific at 800/726-2636.
www.panapacific.com
163 0402 Gear02 Z   |   163 0402 Gear02 Z Known for its military-spec hydraulic winches, MileMarker now offers a lightweight, heavy-duty electric 12,000-pound winch. Weighing in at a mere 94 pounds, it includes 100 feet of 3/8-inch diameter cable, roller fairolead, 12-foot remote, 5.5-horsepower motor, and an automatic brake, and it comes with a two-year warranty. Expect to pay around $959. Mile Marker, Inc; 800/886-8647.
www.milemarker.com
163 0402 Gear03 Z   |   163 0402 Gear03 Z If you've ever wanted to tackle a tough trail and videotape your exploits, now you can with the MotoCam from CyberSpeed Technologies. The vibration-damped camera connects to all camcorders, and with the included LCD screen, can double as a backup aid. The water-resistant system comes in polished chrome, black, or brushed aluminum. The kit includes a full-color LCD display, high-resolution infrared color camera, multiflex vibration-absorbing mounts, and all the necessary cabling, and retails for $799. CyberSpeed Technologies; 206/523-6459.
www.themotocam.com
163 0402 Gear04 Z   |   163 0402 Gear04 Z If you regularly use a tarp to cover items in your bed, extend the life of the covering, regardless of the fabric, by adding Super Snap reusable grommets. The portable, easy-to-install grommets are ideal for creating additional tiedown points, replacing grommets that ripped out, and making or repairing tarps. A package contains four grommets. Suggested retail is $3.95, and they're available at most Home Depot stores. Super Sharpener; (866) 869-8115.
www.supersharpener.com
163 0402 Gear05 Z   |   163 0402 Gear05 Z Agri-Cover's LiteRider soft rollup tonneau cover has added a new sleek appeal. Black-anodized aluminum siderails have taken the place of the previous silver-anodized aluminum units. The LiteRider is tested and proven for years of trouble-free service by combining quality construction and quick clamp-on installation. The tonneau runs from $340-$360, depending on application. Agri-Cover; 800/233-4655.
www.literider.com
163 0402 06z Chevrolet Silverado Pickup Truckbed   |   163 0402 06z Chevrolet Silverado Pickup Truckbed So, your truck or SUV is loaded to the gills, and you still have a cooler or a steamer trunk to carry? Bestop has the answer, with its new receiver hitch bracket and universal tray. The bracket comes in standard 11/4-inch and 2-inch hitch sizes and attaches to the polyethylene rack tray with four bolts. The assembly can carry up to 200 pounds. Recessed eyebolts aid in strapping down cargo. Expect to pay $111.95 for the bracket and an extra $121.95 for the tray. Bestop; 888/845-3567.
www.bestop.com
163 0402 Gear07 Z   |   163 0402 Gear07 Z